Structure of the respiratory system

The respiratory system is responsible for supplying oxygen to the blood and removing carbon dioxide.
It consists of the nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, and lungs.

The nose is the primary entry point for air, where it’s warmed, moistened, and filtered before reaching the lungs.
The pharynx is a tube-like structure where both food and air pass goes down into the oesophagus and larynx respectively.

The larynx contains the vocal chords and produces sound during speech.
The trachea or windpipe is a tube that carries air from the larynx down to the bronchi.
The bronchi are two branches from the lower trachea that carry air into each lung.

The bronchi further divide into smaller passages called bronchioles.
These bronchioles further split and end in tiny air sacs called alveoli, where the exchange of gases takes place.

During inhalation, the diaphragm contracts and chest cavity enlarges, drawing air into the lungs.
Air travels down the trachea, through the bronchi and bronchioles, until it reaches the alveoli.
In the alveoli, oxygen from inhaled air passes into the blood, and carbon dioxide — a waste product of body’s metabolism — is expelled from the blood into the alveoli.
During exhalation, the diaphragm relaxes, the chest cavity reduces in size, and carbon dioxide-rich air is pushed out of the lungs and expelled through the nose or mouth.

The respiratory system’s capacity to transport oxygen to muscles and remove carbon dioxide impacts an athlete’s performance.
Stamina and endurance are directly influenced by efficient functioning of the respiratory system.
Regular cardio workouts or exercises that increase lung capacity can enhance athletic performance.
Athletes should avoid smoking and exposure to pollution, as these can damage lungs and hamper respiratory system function.
Good hydration and nutrition also support optimal respiratory function.

Regular cardio exercise, proper nutrition, good sleep and avoiding smoke and pollutants support a healthy respiratory system.
Breathing exercises like those in yoga or meditation can also enhance lung function and efficiency.
Regular check-ups and asthma screenings help in early detection of any respiratory issues.
Cold weather can constrict airways, so athletes training in such conditions should take precautions like wearing a face mask.
Wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness are signs of potential respiratory problems that need medical attention.